Starting a cleaning business in Florida is one of the most accessible paths to entrepreneurship. With low startup costs, no formal education requirements, and Florida's booming population creating constant demand, it's no wonder thousands of Floridians launch cleaning companies each year.
We're Affordable Cleaning Today, a BBB A+ accredited cleaning company operating in the Tampa Bay area since 2022. In this guide, we'll share everything we've learned about starting and growing a successful cleaning business in Florida - including the real costs, legal requirements, and mistakes to avoid.
1. Florida Cleaning Business Overview
Why Florida is Great for Cleaning Businesses
- Population Growth: Florida adds 1,000+ new residents daily - all need cleaning services
- Tourism: 140+ million visitors annually create massive vacation rental/Airbnb demand
- No State Income Tax: Keep more of your profits
- Year-Round Demand: No seasonal slowdowns like northern states
- Low Barriers: No state license required for residential cleaning
Types of Cleaning Businesses to Consider
Residential Cleaning
Houses, condos, apartments. Lower startup costs, consistent recurring revenue potential.
Commercial Cleaning
Offices, retail stores, medical facilities. Higher contracts but more competition and requirements.
Vacation Rental/Airbnb
Turnover cleanings for short-term rentals. High demand in Florida's tourist areas.
Specialty Cleaning
Post-construction, move-in/out, hoarding, crime scene. Higher rates, specialized training needed.
2. Legal Requirements and LLC Formation
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
| Structure | Cost | Liability Protection | Our Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sole Proprietorship | $0 | None | Not recommended |
| LLC | $125 | Full | Best for most |
| Corporation | $70+ | Full | For larger operations |
Step 2: Register Your LLC with Sunbiz
Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz): sunbiz.org
- Filing Fee: $125 (online)
- Annual Report: $138.75 (due every year by May 1st)
- Processing Time: 1-2 business days online
- Required Info: Business name, registered agent, member names
Step 3: Get Your EIN (Free)
Apply for a free Employer Identification Number from the IRS at irs.gov. You'll need this for business bank accounts and hiring.
Step 4: Local Business License
Most Florida cities/counties require a local business tax receipt (occupational license). In Pasco County, this costs about $50. Check with your local tax collector's office.
3. Insurance Requirements
Do NOT Skip Insurance
One broken antique vase or slip-and-fall injury can bankrupt an uninsured cleaning business. Most clients will ask for proof of insurance before hiring you.
General Liability Insurance (Required)
Covers property damage and bodily injury to clients or third parties.
Cost: $500 - $1,500/year for $1M coverage
Providers: Next Insurance, Thimble, GEICO, Progressive
Surety Bond (Highly Recommended)
Protects clients against theft by you or your cleaners.
Cost: $100 - $300/year for $10K bond
Many clients won't hire unbonded cleaners
Workers' Compensation (If Hiring)
Required by Florida law if you have 4+ employees (or 1+ in construction).
Cost: $1,000 - $3,000/year depending on payroll
Get quotes from multiple providers
4. Complete Startup Cost Breakdown
Here's what it actually costs to start a legitimate, insured cleaning business in Florida:
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Filing (Sunbiz) | $125 | One-time |
| Annual Report | $138.75 | Yearly (due May 1) |
| EIN | FREE | IRS.gov |
| Local Business License | ~$50 | Varies by county |
| Liability Insurance | $500+ | Annual ($1M coverage) |
| Surety Bond | $100 | Annual ($10K bond) |
| Equipment | $800 | Vacuum, mop, caddy, etc. |
| Supplies (3-month stock) | $300 | Cleaners, microfiber, etc. |
| Website | $200 | Domain + basic site |
| Initial Marketing | $500 | Google Ads, flyers, cards |
| Software (Year 1) | $240 | Scheduling, invoicing |
| Uniforms/Branding | $150 | Shirts, car magnet |
| Training/Certification | $200 | Optional but valuable |
| TOTAL STARTUP COST | $4,503.75 | Minimum recommended |
Budget Reality Check
While you can start for less by skipping insurance and working as a sole proprietor, we strongly advise against it. One accident or lawsuit can wipe you out. Budget at least $3,000-$5,000 to start properly.
5. Essential Equipment List
Must-Have Equipment
- Commercial vacuum with HEPA filter - $150-$400
- Mop and bucket system - $50-$100
- Microfiber cloths (50+ pack) - $30-$50
- Scrub brushes (various sizes) - $20
- Spray bottles - $15
- Cleaning caddy/tote - $25
- Extension duster - $15
- Rubber gloves (bulk) - $20
- Knee pads - $20
Essential Supplies
- All-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Bathroom disinfectant
- Toilet bowl cleaner
- Stainless steel polish
- Wood polish/cleaner
- Degreaser (kitchen)
- Trash bags
- Paper towels (backup)
Pro Tip: Buy Commercial Grade
Consumer-grade equipment from Walmart won't last. Invest in commercial vacuums (ProTeam, Hoover Commercial) and concentrated cleaning solutions. They cost more upfront but save money long-term.
6. How to Price Your Services
Pricing is where most new cleaning businesses struggle. Price too low and you'll burn out. Price too high and you won't get clients.
| Service Type | Florida Average | Tampa Bay Range |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Cleaning (2,000 sq ft) | $120-$180 | $130-$200 |
| Deep Cleaning (2,000 sq ft) | $200-$350 | $250-$400 |
| Move-Out Cleaning | $200-$400 | $250-$450 |
| Hourly Rate (per cleaner) | $25-$45/hr | $30-$50/hr |
Pricing Strategies
Hourly Pricing
Charge per cleaner per hour. Simple but harder to upsell. Good for starting out.
Flat Rate Pricing
Fixed price based on home size/bedrooms/bathrooms. Better profit margins as you get faster.
Square Footage Pricing
$0.05-$0.15 per sq ft depending on service. Professional but requires accurate estimates.
7. Marketing Your Cleaning Business
Free/Low-Cost Marketing
Google Business Profile
Free and essential. Get on Google Maps and collect reviews.
Nextdoor
Free neighborhood app. Perfect for local service businesses.
Facebook Groups
Join local community groups and be helpful (not spammy).
Referral Program
Offer $25-$50 credit for referrals. Word of mouth is powerful.
Paid Marketing
8. Scaling and Hiring
Once you're consistently booked, you'll need to decide: stay solo or grow a team?
Hiring Options in Florida
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Contractors (1099) | No payroll taxes, flexible, lower overhead | Less control, must meet IRS criteria |
| W-2 Employees | Full control, set schedules, training | Payroll taxes, workers' comp, more liability |
Important: Contractor vs. Employee
The IRS has strict rules about who qualifies as a 1099 contractor. If you control when, where, and how they work, they're likely an employee. Misclassification can result in significant penalties. Consult an accountant before hiring.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Pricing Too Low
Competing on price is a race to the bottom. Charge what you're worth.
Skipping Insurance
One lawsuit can end your business. Insurance is non-negotiable.
No Written Agreements
Always have service agreements and cancellation policies in writing.
Ignoring Reviews
Ask every happy client for a Google review. Respond to negative reviews professionally.
Not Tracking Finances
Separate business and personal accounts. Track every expense. Hire a bookkeeper.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to start a cleaning business in Florida?
Florida does not require a state-level license for residential cleaning businesses. However, you'll need a local business license (occupational license) from your city or county, which typically costs $25-$100. Commercial cleaning may require additional certifications depending on the industry you serve.
How much does it cost to start a cleaning business in Florida?
You can start a basic residential cleaning business in Florida for $3,000-$5,000. This includes LLC formation ($125), liability insurance ($500-$1,500/year), basic equipment ($500-$1,000), supplies ($200-$400), and marketing ($500-$1,000). Operating as a sole proprietor reduces costs but increases personal liability.
Do I need an LLC to start a cleaning business in Florida?
While not legally required, forming an LLC is strongly recommended for cleaning businesses. It protects your personal assets from business liability, costs only $125 to file in Florida, and provides tax flexibility. The annual report fee is $138.75.
What insurance do I need for a cleaning business in Florida?
At minimum, you need General Liability Insurance ($500-$1,500/year) covering property damage and injuries. If hiring, Workers' Compensation is required by Florida law with 4+ employees. Many clients also require you to be bonded ($100-$300/year), which protects against theft.
Is a cleaning business profitable in Florida?
Yes, cleaning businesses can be very profitable in Florida. The average residential cleaning job charges $100-$200, with profit margins of 30-50% after expenses. Florida's growing population, tourism industry, and year-round warm climate create consistent demand for cleaning services.
Not Ready to Start Your Own Business?
Starting a business isn't for everyone - and that's okay. If you need professional cleaning services in the Tampa Bay area, Affordable Cleaning Today is here to help. We're BBB A+ accredited, licensed, bonded, and insured with 86+ five-star reviews.
Good luck with your cleaning business! If you have questions, feel free to reach out - we're always happy to help fellow Florida entrepreneurs.